Edmonton Oilers forwards Leon Draisaitl and Drake Caggiula are on the injured reserve, but may be closer to returning than once thought.
Both Draisaitl and Caggiula will be traveling with the team as they venture on a three-game eastern conference road swing. While it’s unclear at this time if they will play, it is a good sign moving forward.
Edmonton Oilers
Caggiula has been on the injured reserve with an undisclosed injury. After suffering a hit from Jacob Trouba, Draisaitl has been out with “concussion-type symptoms” surrounding an injury to his eye. Both haven’t been present at practice, nor have they skated with the team.
In three games this season, Draisaitl has a goal and three points. Caggiula has been scoreless through two games but has registered three shots on goal.
The Oilers are looking to break a four-game losing streak. Over the course of these games, they’ve been not only outscored but have also lacked offence. However, Edmonton may not struggle as much in the near future, considering two highly-skilled forwards are nearing a return.
Risking an Early Return
However, one must hope that the Oilers’ woes aren’t the reason for their returns. Draisaitl’s injury has been severe enough to keep him off the ice for over a week, and with Edmonton surely missing his offense, there may be concern as to if he is truly ready to return. While it would be ideal to have him back in action as soon as possible, it would be detrimental if he came back too early. There is always a chance that if he comes back before he fully recovers, he could risk a more severe injury in the end.
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In the meantime, Brad Malone remains up with the team as the fourth-line centre. Not only that, other players are getting minutes to prove their worth. However, the Oilers also need more effort from their big-name players, especially with their offence lacking.